FIRST COMMUNION Meaning and
Definition
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First Communion is a religious ceremony that typically takes place in the Catholic Church, where a person receives the sacrament of the Eucharist for the first time. It is considered an important milestone in the spiritual journey of a Catholic child, usually around the age of seven or eight. During First Communion, the child consumes the consecrated bread and wine, which Catholics believe transform into the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
The ceremony is usually preceded by a period of preparation, during which the child learns about the meaning and significance of the Eucharist. They receive instruction on the biblical teachings, the Last Supper, and the importance of receiving the sacrament with reverence and faith. First Communion is often celebrated in a special Mass, where the child wears white attire symbolizing purity and innocence.
The purpose of First Communion is to allow the child to participate fully in the life of the Church and to strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is believed to be a memorable moment when the child becomes more closely united with Christ and the community of believers. After First Communion, the child is encouraged to continue receiving the Eucharist regularly throughout their lives, considering it a vital source of spiritual nourishment.
Overall, First Communion is a sacramental event in the Catholic Church that signifies the formal admission of a child into the practice of receiving the Holy Eucharist, solidifying their connection to Christ and the Catholic faith.
Etymology of FIRST COMMUNION
The word "communion" originated from the Latin word "communio", which means "sharing in common" or "participation". It has its roots in the word "communis", meaning "common" or "shared". In Christianity, communion refers to the practice of consuming bread and wine, which symbolize the body and blood of Jesus Christ, respectively.
The phrase "first communion" specifically refers to the first time a person, typically a child, participates in the Eucharist or Holy Communion, which is a sacrament in various Christian denominations. This sacrament is considered a significant milestone in the Catholic Church, and it symbolizes a person's deepening relationship with God.
The exact origin of the term "first communion" is not clear, as it has been in use for centuries.
